Scotland vehicle hire company releases funds through minibus refinance
Glasgow based hire company 1st Vehicle Hire Ltd was established in 2015.
Since being acquired in 2022 by Declan Bryce, the business now operates under the Practical Car and Van Rental brand which is the fourth-largest vehicle rental company in the UK. The business has approximately 60 vehicles in its fleet including vans, cars, campervans, motorhomes and minibus for hire to customers across the Glasgow area.
A growing demand
Recently, 1st Vehicle Hire Ltd identified an increased demand for minibus rentals, particularly for weddings and private hires. To fulfil this need, the business purchased a Ford Transit 17-seater minibus outright. However, recognising the potential of releasing capital from this purchase to fuel further expansion, the decision was made to refinance the minibus. For assistance with this refinance, Declan got in touch with Kevin Byrne, Regional Sales Manager for Close Brothers Asset Finance.
The suitable agreement
Over the past year, the business has expanded and diversified their fleet through multiple finance agreements with Close Brothers Asset Finance. For the refinance of the minibus Kevin proposed using a Sale and HP back agreement. This offered the company manageable repayments, which are generated by the minibus being hired out, whilst releasing the capital into the business.
A position for growth
By making the decision to refinance the minibus, 1st Vehicle Hire Ltd were able to invest the released capital into its operations, paving the way for enhanced service offerings. With a strengthened asset base, the company is poised for sustained growth in the competitive vehicle rental landscape.
Kevin Byrne said: "Working closely with 1st Vehicle Hire Ltd has been a great pleasure, the company's commitment to innovation and growth is inspiring. Our goal is to empower businesses to thrive and seeing the positive impact of this refinance agreement is extremely fulfilling. I look forward to working with Declan on further agreements in the future."
"The assistance provided by Close Brothers Asset Finance has been instrumental in our journey towards expansion. By refinancing the minibus, we were able to release funds to reinvest back
into our business and further solidify our position in the market. We would certainly look to work with Kevin and his team at Close Brothers Asset Finance if we needed further finance in the future." Declan Bryce, Director, 1st Vehicle Hire Ltd
